What is Chasteberry?

Also known as monk's pepper and vitex, chasteberry comes from the dried, reddish-black fruits of the Vitex agnus-castus, a shrub-like tree that grows across the Mediterranean and Central Asia. Since the time of Hippocrates in ancient Greece, these fruits have been prized for their beneficial effects on the female reproductive system. In the Middle Ages, many believed that vitex chasteberry encouraged chastity, leading to the tree’s name and widespread chasteberry use amongst monks and clergy members. Today, scientific studies don't show any evidence that vitex acts as an anti-aphrodisiac, but research does suggest chasteberry offers a number of benefits for women's reproductive and hormonal health.**

Though chaste tree berry doesn't contain any hormones, it does have a regulating effect on hormonal activity. Studies show this is due to dopaminergenic compounds in the berries that act on the pituitary gland, stimulating it to produce more luteinizing hormones, or LH. Higher LH levels cause the ovaries to produce more of the hormone progesterone. When progesterone and estrogen levels grow imbalanced, it may contribute to the symptoms associated with Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS. Vitex chasteberry balances progesterone and estrogen levels, as well as lowers levels of another hormone, prolactin. Lower prolactin levels optimize breast health (and ease breast pain), enhance regular ovulation and promote fertility.**

Studies indicate that vitex chasteberry's hormone-balancing effects also promote clear, healthy skin and help to regulate the hot flashes, mood swings and other physical effects of menopause. Vitex chasteberry supplements are popular across Europe, where they're used to promote an easier menstrual cycle and mitigate the effects of PMS.**

Chasteberry Supplements

Chasteberry supplements come from the dried berries of the Vitex agnus-castus plant. Sometimes marketed as vitex, supplements are sold in many forms, including capsules, tablets, liquids, tinctures or as a tea. Chasteberry vitex may be combined with other reproductive-health-enhancing herbs in women’s formulas, such as dong quai, wild yam, dandelion or false unicorn root.**

Chasteberry Directions for Use

Always speak with your medical provider before adding vitex chaste tree berry, or any other supplements, into your healthcare regimen. The recommended vitex dosage is 400 to 800 mg in tablet or capsule form or 40 drops of tincture once per day.**